Overall, the class discussions were informative in certain aspects. For instance, I never thought about blacks getting sunburn. Who thinks of these things? But then again, curiosity is what allows us to understand others. Living in a multi-cultural world doesn’t mean you are multi-cultural. Living in Miami, there are a lot of Hispanics, and quite frankly, I feel comfortable. Miami is my comfort zone because it is what I am used to, and it where I was raised. I don’t understand certain things about Hispanics, which means I understand even less things about blacks. Even in my country of origin, people from different cities and the same ethnical background think they are better than the other. Life is filled with different people and because such a diversity of individuals may interact in a daily basis, it allows us to understand them better. Everyone carries a stereotype and act and think in ways we didn’t realize.
A rather insulting comment that my brother made to my mother was an eye opener to how subconsciously people act. When I was a baby, I had a black Colombian nanny, and my brother at that time was about 4 years old. My mother told us about his experience with my nanny. He sees my mother putting something in the oven, and he tells her not to put her hands in the oven because she was going to get burned. My brother tells her to let the nanny do it because she is black and her hands were not going to get burned. I am quite shocked about his comment, even till this day, but he didn’t know any better. My brother was very young, a little boy, and in his mind, what he said was not wrong. It seems that he said what he did because of the literal difference of color, a person’s skin color. My mother told him that the nanny disliked him, and she punished him for saying that. My brother is a grown man now, and he loves interacting with people of any race. We are both very open to anyone. Did he know what he was doing? Of course not, but those are subconscious beliefs. These are the stereotypes that make us conclude to things that are irrelevant, like the belief that black don’t get sunburn.
When we spoke in class about whether we had to be a Hispanic to cover a Hispanic community or a black to cover a black community, I have different opinions. If a Hispanic lady covers a Hispanic community, she will probably be restricted in asking questions because she will think that she knows the answers for some. She might think that she knows how Hispanics think. However, Hispanics might reveal more information to a Hispanic reporter than any other reporter because they feel comfortable within the same race and likewise for the black reporter or white reporter. I think in general, any person should be able to cover any race because it is worth it. Understanding people in a different level enlightens you.
In regards to photographs, they are powerful and might create a misconception. Photographs I believe are like art. There are different angles, and sides you can take other than the meaningful one. Ads are targeted to certain individuals. With that said, ads might also create a misconception and be insulting. The Red House Furniture commercial was very unique. I have never seen a commercial that has made sure to have black and white customers. If a white man says that the mattress is perfect for him, he also states it is perfect for a black man too. It was funny when at the end of the commercial. They mentioned that Hispanics are welcomed as well.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Journal 4
In regards to the saying, “Who’s not a liberal when they are young has no soul and those who are not conservative when they’re old have no brain,” it was rather relevant and not relevant to me. A liberal has more of a free mind, and they believe that people should choose their own destiny with less government control. Conservatives are usually religious, and they like more control as well as following rules. The saying seems to be written by a conservative because to a liberal the saying is not true because there are many liberals with brains. In a way, I agree with the saying in the sense that a child has no bad intentions, and children believe that everything is good. I disagree with the saying because as an adult, you should be able to choose your own path whether it be a liberal or conservative path.
The conversation or group discussion in NPR was rather interesting. Because all the members in the discussion group had different beliefs, allowed me to analyze everyone’s perspective or beliefs. When I see a person of the black race, I think about someone tall and strong, and possibly very athletic. I have noticed a lot of the Miami Dolphins’ players are of the black race. Of course, not everyone is the same or has the same genes, but there are a large percentage of individuals that are within the same race and are very similar. In this case, the black member of the group discussion was not a build black man, and he had the same feeling when he was 5 or 6 years old. He is not what people believe black men look like, and he wasn’t when he was young as well. On the contrary, there was another black man, Michael Smith, in the room that says that a large black man has to be very friendly. If I see a large black or white man or even Hispanic, I will be scared because of their size regardless of the person’s race.
I think Margie has a good point. Margie says that in the ‘60s, her family moved to the suburbs. Whites did what they could to make them move, and they would call them “Niggers.” She explains that her past taught her to love everybody, but she doesn’t understand why people have to be taught to love her. When there’s a majority of people within the same race, they tend to unite. With that in mind, the majority of the people who have the same beliefs want to rule. Is it fair? I don’t think so, but because they feel comfortable by having many people supporting their beliefs, they do and act as they please. I admire Margie because even though she was not wanted in the suburbs, she has the heart today to say that her past has taught her to love everybody. I disagree with the woman that says that in her mind, the only way that you are no longer a Muslim in reference to President Obama, is if you are dead, and killed. Her statement makes me think that she is narrow minded, meaning that in her world, things are either white or black, and gray doesn’t exist. Obama neglects his allegations on being a Muslim even though he was in a school as a Muslim living in Indonesia, according to the Washington Post. I think what matters is the truth, if he is telling the truth; there still shouldn’t be skepticism on what he is now. The past is just a stepping stone to the present and future, but it is not the same stone you stand in now.
Hearing every member within the group discussion speak, enlightened me in a way. I know some people are still racist or have a certain belief among others of a different race. The main question is: Why? Many people are raised in a household where their parents have certain beliefs and those beliefs are implemented within the family’s credentials.
The conversation or group discussion in NPR was rather interesting. Because all the members in the discussion group had different beliefs, allowed me to analyze everyone’s perspective or beliefs. When I see a person of the black race, I think about someone tall and strong, and possibly very athletic. I have noticed a lot of the Miami Dolphins’ players are of the black race. Of course, not everyone is the same or has the same genes, but there are a large percentage of individuals that are within the same race and are very similar. In this case, the black member of the group discussion was not a build black man, and he had the same feeling when he was 5 or 6 years old. He is not what people believe black men look like, and he wasn’t when he was young as well. On the contrary, there was another black man, Michael Smith, in the room that says that a large black man has to be very friendly. If I see a large black or white man or even Hispanic, I will be scared because of their size regardless of the person’s race.
I think Margie has a good point. Margie says that in the ‘60s, her family moved to the suburbs. Whites did what they could to make them move, and they would call them “Niggers.” She explains that her past taught her to love everybody, but she doesn’t understand why people have to be taught to love her. When there’s a majority of people within the same race, they tend to unite. With that in mind, the majority of the people who have the same beliefs want to rule. Is it fair? I don’t think so, but because they feel comfortable by having many people supporting their beliefs, they do and act as they please. I admire Margie because even though she was not wanted in the suburbs, she has the heart today to say that her past has taught her to love everybody. I disagree with the woman that says that in her mind, the only way that you are no longer a Muslim in reference to President Obama, is if you are dead, and killed. Her statement makes me think that she is narrow minded, meaning that in her world, things are either white or black, and gray doesn’t exist. Obama neglects his allegations on being a Muslim even though he was in a school as a Muslim living in Indonesia, according to the Washington Post. I think what matters is the truth, if he is telling the truth; there still shouldn’t be skepticism on what he is now. The past is just a stepping stone to the present and future, but it is not the same stone you stand in now.
Hearing every member within the group discussion speak, enlightened me in a way. I know some people are still racist or have a certain belief among others of a different race. The main question is: Why? Many people are raised in a household where their parents have certain beliefs and those beliefs are implemented within the family’s credentials.
Summary of Listening Post
When I was about 4 years old, I got lost at the mall. My mom told me that she found me holding hands with a little black girl. At a young age, I felt a sense of comfort among other races. It just came naturally to see other individuals with the same eyes, but what was impressive to me is to be seen the same by other individuals. I learned that I can be approachable, but so are others. I am going to admit I was rather scared when Louis came up to me because I did not know what his intentions were, but I guess it takes a risk to find out. If I wouldn’t have given him the time of day to converse with me, I wouldn’t have learned about him. Going into the flea market, you don’t know what to expect, what people to find, but what I found were individuals who are working hard to aspire more from life, and I also found a cockroach. I don’t like cockroaches or lizards or insects.
When I was talking to Louis, I saw a little creature crawling underneath the table and near my feet. As I spot it and try not to make a big fuss about it, I put my feet a bit higher than ground level in order to prevent it from touching me. I had a different perception about the flea market, but I was able to acquire a different insight and how the flea market is and the individuals that I met. The whole perception of the flea market being dirty or dusty and creating a rash in my body is not relevant to me anymore.
Even though Louis and Rodriguez are working at Flea Market USA, they attend school whether it is a cosmetology or an institute. They both are driven and know what they like to do in their careers. Besides having the flea market as a place in common to work or visit, they are hardworking individuals who need to support themselves.
I ask myself if a person who works in such environment aspires more from life or is satisfied with their jobs and lifestyle. I think that depends on the individual and their financial needs. Rodriguez and Louis are both seeking a better position in the workforce. Because of their hard work, I wish them well and the best. I learned a lot of things about them and how they overcame abuses or affairs, but yet, they are positive today about their future.
Listening Post 3
As I entered Flea Market USA for my last listening post, I waited for Hazel Rodriguez. In the meantime, I sat down in a chair and waited by the food stands. Some stores in the flea market were just opening. As I sat and waited, I noticed a black man looking at me. I was kind of tense because he kept on staring like if he wanted to approach me. He was some what tall, with dreads and with gold fangs. I was skeptical about acknowledging him in front of me, but I did. I would have never approached him if I wasn’t a journalism student. Being able to speak to this person allowed me to discover a side of him that I wouldn’t have known if he didn’t come up to me. His cross necklace caught my attention as I wondered how religious he was.
I met Junior Louis who is 21 years old. I asked Louis what he was doing at the flea market, and he told me that he wanted to buy clothes before going to Islands of Adventure. Louis prefers shopping at the flea market because he likes bargains.
Louis lives in Miami Shores with two roommates, two guys. Louis met his roommates when he visited Miami from Orlando. He mentioned his situation and how he wanted to live here, and they agreed to it. Louis was born in Miami. He lived in Miami till he was 12 years old and then left to Orlando. Louis likes Orlando better than Miami, but he says there are better living conditions in Miami. In February of this year, Louis came back to his hometown, Miami.
Louis’ dad lives in Miami and his mom lives in Orlando. His mom lives with his younger brother and sister. His mom used to work at the airport in Orlando, but she is currently working as a nurse. She takes care of the elders in the area. When Louis lived with his mother, he did not have as much responsibilities. Louis, his mother, and his siblings lived in the Metro west area.
Louis told me that his parents got separated before he left to Orlando at the age of 12. His dad was abusive, and he didn’t know what to do about it when he was young. His dad used to drink often. It affected him having to see his mom go through it. Because of his father’s abusive behavior, Louis now knows what to do, what not to do and what’s right and wrong. He still keeps in contact with both of his parents. He says that his dad is a better man, and he explains that he changed. It took him long enough to change. His father’s temper problems caused him to beat the children every other day. Today, the slight absence of alcohol has allowed Louis’ dad to be calmer and laid back.
Louis has three sisters and a brother and when one got in trouble, everybody used to get a whopping from his father. Louis says that sometimes he did not want to be around him, see his face. He had hatred towards him. His father made Louis feel that he was a mistake when he was younger. He would call him stupid, good for nothing. His father would take his anger out on him and his sisters and brother. Louis says that he was a smart child in school, and besides his intelligence, his father used to bring him down.
Louis has grown to leave the past in the past and focus on the future. His older brother and sister live in Miami. He barely sees them. They don’t call him, and he doesn’t call them. Louis will hear from his siblings living in Orlando every other month. At times, he calls them, and their phone is disconnected. He doesn’t hear from them that often as well. His older brother has children, but is not married. Last time he spoke to his older sister, she was at their aunt’s house.
Louis is currently attending Everest Institute. He wants to graduate with a surgical technician degree, and he is expected to graduate in 2010. He is currently working at Target as a cashier. He says he has to smile and communicate well in his job. He would like to be a team leader or manager one day. Once Louis graduates from school, he would like to leave Target.
Louis has trust issues with people because he wonders whether or not he can trust them. He had friends from high school that have changed a lot from when he first met them.
Junior Louis was born at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Florida. He lived most of his life near Miami Shores and went to elementary school in Miami. Biscayne Gardens Elementary, Phyllis Ruth Miller and Elementary Ruth K. Broad/Bay Harbor K-8 Center are the elementary schools that Louis attended. Louis attended a middle school at Orlando, and the high school he went to is Ridge Community High School at Davenport, Florida. He also went to Haines City High School at Haines City, Florida.
Louis has no children, and he is not married. His only serious relationship was a four year relationship in high school. They both went separate ways, but he has learned and changed.
While in Orlando, Louis was involved with the Army National Guard as a part-time signal supporter. After high school, Louis did his training, which involved a lot of physical exercises. He had to report once a month to the unit. Louis used to set up satellite antennas, communication radios, and he used to troubleshoot computer software and hardware. Louis has a contract of 8 years. He was active for 4 years, meaning he had to report and drill once a month for a week. He is in the last 4 years of the contract and is inactive, meaning he doesn’t have to report, but if he is called, he has to go to war. Louis enjoyed his experience at the Army National Guard because he met people from different states and countries. He likes interacting with a diversity of people.
Louis explains to me that in high school he had an influential experience when he was doing community service hours. He made an impact on the children’s lives for the better by tutoring them at their school.
Junior Louis describes himself as a kindhearted person, nice and respectful. He says that makes him different from everyone else. If Louis sees a homeless person, he buys them some food and gives them money. He says that he doesn’t know what the person’s situation is like.
In regards to religion, Louis says he is not religious, but he does believe in God. He believes that religion is something that keeps people under control. His mom raised them within the Catholic religion, but while in Orlando, she attended Christian churches and converted herself into the Christian religion.
Louis’ hobbies include listening to music, poetry, drawing, going to the beach and playing football.
I met once more with Hazel Rodriguez, and she informed me that she had to find a job meanwhile because she had to leave the salon until next month. Hazel is claiming her weeks for unemployment for about a year now, and the money from the unemployment has been helping her to manage with the rent and the light. Hazel’s ex-husband doesn’t send her money often. If her ex-husband does send her money, she uses it for her expenses. She mainly is dependent on her unemployment money.
I met Junior Louis who is 21 years old. I asked Louis what he was doing at the flea market, and he told me that he wanted to buy clothes before going to Islands of Adventure. Louis prefers shopping at the flea market because he likes bargains.
Louis lives in Miami Shores with two roommates, two guys. Louis met his roommates when he visited Miami from Orlando. He mentioned his situation and how he wanted to live here, and they agreed to it. Louis was born in Miami. He lived in Miami till he was 12 years old and then left to Orlando. Louis likes Orlando better than Miami, but he says there are better living conditions in Miami. In February of this year, Louis came back to his hometown, Miami.
Louis’ dad lives in Miami and his mom lives in Orlando. His mom lives with his younger brother and sister. His mom used to work at the airport in Orlando, but she is currently working as a nurse. She takes care of the elders in the area. When Louis lived with his mother, he did not have as much responsibilities. Louis, his mother, and his siblings lived in the Metro west area.
Louis told me that his parents got separated before he left to Orlando at the age of 12. His dad was abusive, and he didn’t know what to do about it when he was young. His dad used to drink often. It affected him having to see his mom go through it. Because of his father’s abusive behavior, Louis now knows what to do, what not to do and what’s right and wrong. He still keeps in contact with both of his parents. He says that his dad is a better man, and he explains that he changed. It took him long enough to change. His father’s temper problems caused him to beat the children every other day. Today, the slight absence of alcohol has allowed Louis’ dad to be calmer and laid back.
Louis has three sisters and a brother and when one got in trouble, everybody used to get a whopping from his father. Louis says that sometimes he did not want to be around him, see his face. He had hatred towards him. His father made Louis feel that he was a mistake when he was younger. He would call him stupid, good for nothing. His father would take his anger out on him and his sisters and brother. Louis says that he was a smart child in school, and besides his intelligence, his father used to bring him down.
Louis has grown to leave the past in the past and focus on the future. His older brother and sister live in Miami. He barely sees them. They don’t call him, and he doesn’t call them. Louis will hear from his siblings living in Orlando every other month. At times, he calls them, and their phone is disconnected. He doesn’t hear from them that often as well. His older brother has children, but is not married. Last time he spoke to his older sister, she was at their aunt’s house.
Louis is currently attending Everest Institute. He wants to graduate with a surgical technician degree, and he is expected to graduate in 2010. He is currently working at Target as a cashier. He says he has to smile and communicate well in his job. He would like to be a team leader or manager one day. Once Louis graduates from school, he would like to leave Target.
Louis has trust issues with people because he wonders whether or not he can trust them. He had friends from high school that have changed a lot from when he first met them.
Junior Louis was born at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Florida. He lived most of his life near Miami Shores and went to elementary school in Miami. Biscayne Gardens Elementary, Phyllis Ruth Miller and Elementary Ruth K. Broad/Bay Harbor K-8 Center are the elementary schools that Louis attended. Louis attended a middle school at Orlando, and the high school he went to is Ridge Community High School at Davenport, Florida. He also went to Haines City High School at Haines City, Florida.
Louis has no children, and he is not married. His only serious relationship was a four year relationship in high school. They both went separate ways, but he has learned and changed.
While in Orlando, Louis was involved with the Army National Guard as a part-time signal supporter. After high school, Louis did his training, which involved a lot of physical exercises. He had to report once a month to the unit. Louis used to set up satellite antennas, communication radios, and he used to troubleshoot computer software and hardware. Louis has a contract of 8 years. He was active for 4 years, meaning he had to report and drill once a month for a week. He is in the last 4 years of the contract and is inactive, meaning he doesn’t have to report, but if he is called, he has to go to war. Louis enjoyed his experience at the Army National Guard because he met people from different states and countries. He likes interacting with a diversity of people.
Louis explains to me that in high school he had an influential experience when he was doing community service hours. He made an impact on the children’s lives for the better by tutoring them at their school.
Junior Louis describes himself as a kindhearted person, nice and respectful. He says that makes him different from everyone else. If Louis sees a homeless person, he buys them some food and gives them money. He says that he doesn’t know what the person’s situation is like.
In regards to religion, Louis says he is not religious, but he does believe in God. He believes that religion is something that keeps people under control. His mom raised them within the Catholic religion, but while in Orlando, she attended Christian churches and converted herself into the Christian religion.
Louis’ hobbies include listening to music, poetry, drawing, going to the beach and playing football.
I met once more with Hazel Rodriguez, and she informed me that she had to find a job meanwhile because she had to leave the salon until next month. Hazel is claiming her weeks for unemployment for about a year now, and the money from the unemployment has been helping her to manage with the rent and the light. Hazel’s ex-husband doesn’t send her money often. If her ex-husband does send her money, she uses it for her expenses. She mainly is dependent on her unemployment money.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Journal 3
In the class discussion, we spoke about how the stereotype that all Native Americans are rich because of they own the Miccosukee and other casinos is not necessarily true. There are stereotypes that are generalized because we base ourselves on the majority. For instance, the stereotype that all Hispanics are Mexican is another broad generalization that is not relevant.
I was quite shocked at the Muslim football player that was fasting during the holy month of Ramadan. It is so hard for me to spend several hours without eating, let alone having to fast while running and playing a sport. I am pretty sure he gets thirsty and hungry, and his commitment to his religion and beliefs was definitely an eye-opener for me of how driven some are. Practicing several hours a week under the hot sun, makes a person feel tempted for a cold glass of water. I just don't know how they do it. Being hydrated is important in order not to get heat stroke. Your body can fail on you and to be in such suspense of whether or not you can do it is nerve wrecking.
I really liked the clip that was shown in the Jay Leno show because the interviewer, Marina Franklin, was a bit comedic and her personality was great, the way she interacted with people that lived in Harlem, New York came naturally. At first, she didn’t seem to be very serious about the topic because she was giving her own twist in the interviewing process. She was trying to interview the white man like if they were friends on oppose to complete strangers. It seemed like she had a barrier between her and the interviewees, but not to the point in which they didn’t feel comfortable talking about the topic.
I was amused in class when I saw the chart on code words. It reminded me of my little cousin when he told his sisters that he didn’t want to speak Spanish because he was not Mexican. I feel that some Disney movies do imply certain beliefs. For instance, crows and gorillas are a representation of black individuals. Chihuahuas are a representation of Hispanics. If a child is watching a Disney movie, the child is going to remember the voice, and it would help them create a generalization on races at some point in their lives.
I agree with Marvin Dunn, a psychology professor at Florida International University, in regards to the quote that states that people feel comfortable when voting for those of their own ethnicity. I believe everyone has their own ideology on what they think is right. People tend to relate more of those in their own race because we think we know what they can be capable of. Being raised with a certain mind frame, by parents does affect us. For instance, my mom was raised in Venezuela, which explains why she would vote for someone Hispanic, possibly because she would understand them better and she might think that they know more about the Hispanic culture and what is affecting us on oppose to someone else.
An issue that a lot of illegal immigrant students are encountering is the inability to register at universities. I think that many don’t take this issue quite seriously, but if a Hispanic would be in power than less students might be deported or at least given the opportunity to study and acquire a degree. Imagine a student that has attended school in the U.S. for 15 years or more and yet they get deported. Honestly, it makes no sense to me because they have been here such a long time and yet at their peak point in their education they are let down. They have lived here and consumed by spending money on a house, cars, food and additional necessities. Why aren’t these things considered when determining whether an illegal immigrant student can attend a university? Who knows, maybe these students can make a difference in the world or would make great candidates for the corporate America?
"Where people are born is a factor to be celebrated, but it should not decide who runs for office," Roberto Ramirez, political leader in New York. I partially agree with Ramirez. The reason for my slight inclination in not believing in ethnic politics is because I think that sometimes we need to be placed out of our comfort zone in order to understand others or to give a priority to other things that are the most essential in the world rather than our own little world.
I think Americans got to their upmost disappointment with how things were being handled. Barack Obama said he was going to bring change, and that is exactly what we needed. We needed change and we needed it fast. Overall, people saw hope in Obama and jumped for the opportunity. He definitely brought in a literal sense of change since he is our first black president.
According to the religion writer’s website, religion shapes people’s actions and reactions in very private and very public ways across the range of news and features. Understanding a person’s religion is crucial because it explains why they act the way they do and why their perspectives are what they are. A reporter cannot understand a person thoroughly if they don’t understand their religion. For instance, if I believe that I shouldn’t live with a guy before marriage, it implies that I am conservative and respectful to myself. If I am respectful, I am someone who might not start conflict or someone who is not judgmental. I think the base of everything a person does is a person’s religion.
I was quite shocked at the Muslim football player that was fasting during the holy month of Ramadan. It is so hard for me to spend several hours without eating, let alone having to fast while running and playing a sport. I am pretty sure he gets thirsty and hungry, and his commitment to his religion and beliefs was definitely an eye-opener for me of how driven some are. Practicing several hours a week under the hot sun, makes a person feel tempted for a cold glass of water. I just don't know how they do it. Being hydrated is important in order not to get heat stroke. Your body can fail on you and to be in such suspense of whether or not you can do it is nerve wrecking.
I really liked the clip that was shown in the Jay Leno show because the interviewer, Marina Franklin, was a bit comedic and her personality was great, the way she interacted with people that lived in Harlem, New York came naturally. At first, she didn’t seem to be very serious about the topic because she was giving her own twist in the interviewing process. She was trying to interview the white man like if they were friends on oppose to complete strangers. It seemed like she had a barrier between her and the interviewees, but not to the point in which they didn’t feel comfortable talking about the topic.
I was amused in class when I saw the chart on code words. It reminded me of my little cousin when he told his sisters that he didn’t want to speak Spanish because he was not Mexican. I feel that some Disney movies do imply certain beliefs. For instance, crows and gorillas are a representation of black individuals. Chihuahuas are a representation of Hispanics. If a child is watching a Disney movie, the child is going to remember the voice, and it would help them create a generalization on races at some point in their lives.
I agree with Marvin Dunn, a psychology professor at Florida International University, in regards to the quote that states that people feel comfortable when voting for those of their own ethnicity. I believe everyone has their own ideology on what they think is right. People tend to relate more of those in their own race because we think we know what they can be capable of. Being raised with a certain mind frame, by parents does affect us. For instance, my mom was raised in Venezuela, which explains why she would vote for someone Hispanic, possibly because she would understand them better and she might think that they know more about the Hispanic culture and what is affecting us on oppose to someone else.
An issue that a lot of illegal immigrant students are encountering is the inability to register at universities. I think that many don’t take this issue quite seriously, but if a Hispanic would be in power than less students might be deported or at least given the opportunity to study and acquire a degree. Imagine a student that has attended school in the U.S. for 15 years or more and yet they get deported. Honestly, it makes no sense to me because they have been here such a long time and yet at their peak point in their education they are let down. They have lived here and consumed by spending money on a house, cars, food and additional necessities. Why aren’t these things considered when determining whether an illegal immigrant student can attend a university? Who knows, maybe these students can make a difference in the world or would make great candidates for the corporate America?
"Where people are born is a factor to be celebrated, but it should not decide who runs for office," Roberto Ramirez, political leader in New York. I partially agree with Ramirez. The reason for my slight inclination in not believing in ethnic politics is because I think that sometimes we need to be placed out of our comfort zone in order to understand others or to give a priority to other things that are the most essential in the world rather than our own little world.
I think Americans got to their upmost disappointment with how things were being handled. Barack Obama said he was going to bring change, and that is exactly what we needed. We needed change and we needed it fast. Overall, people saw hope in Obama and jumped for the opportunity. He definitely brought in a literal sense of change since he is our first black president.
According to the religion writer’s website, religion shapes people’s actions and reactions in very private and very public ways across the range of news and features. Understanding a person’s religion is crucial because it explains why they act the way they do and why their perspectives are what they are. A reporter cannot understand a person thoroughly if they don’t understand their religion. For instance, if I believe that I shouldn’t live with a guy before marriage, it implies that I am conservative and respectful to myself. If I am respectful, I am someone who might not start conflict or someone who is not judgmental. I think the base of everything a person does is a person’s religion.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Listening Post 2
On my second listening post, I met with Hazel Rodriguez again at Flea Market USA, and we conversed about her life as a girlfriend, mother and wife.
Hazel went to elementary school in Carol City. When she was young, she didn’t understand why she was the only Spanish girl that attended her class. Her classmates would bother Hazel because of her hair. She felt sad because she felt she was different, but as she grew older, she felt accepted. In her later years, she had a boyfriend that was black.
Hazel was 13 years old when her parents got divorced. She was both sad and happy when the divorce came about. When she used to live with her father, he wouldn’t allow her to wear skirts or to have boyfriends. She believes that if she was still raised by her father, she wouldn’t have been married, and her sisters would have not gotten pregnant. Hazel and her siblings were rebellious when her parents separated. They moved a lot because of the children’s behavior. When her parents were together, her father used to drink a lot, and he still does. She would always see her father arguing with her mom.
When Hazel would behave badly, her mother would send her to New York until she started behaving well. Once Hazel started behaving well, she moved back to Miami. In one of the visits to New York because of her bad behavior, Hazel met her ex-husband and ended up staying there. Hazel didn’t mind missing school because she didn’t like going to school, and it did not affect her emotionally. She enjoyed traveling. Eventually, Hazel did not end with good grades because of her absence.
Hazel had her first baby when she was 18 years old. She planned to get married in New York with her boyfriend, the baby’s father, but she ended up being pregnant with the baby before marriage. She was 3 months pregnant when she got married. Her boyfriend and she both wanted to get married regardless before the pregnancy occurred. The father of the baby was her first love, and she wanted to have children with him. Both of her children are from the same father. She got divorced because her ex-husband cheated on her with another woman. Hazel says her ex-husband was a good father. She was surprised to find out that he cheated on her.
Hazel had some relatives that worked with him in Foot Locker at New York, and she was informed that he was cheating on her. She had another proof when she caught her boyfriend’s co-worker who was a girl flirting with him and kissing him on the neck.
Her ex-husband dropped out of high school. Hazel got her GED. When she got married, she didn’t worry about her ex-husband’s salary because he was getting paid well at Foot Locker since he was the manager. She didn’t think that not obtaining his degree really affected him. Her ex-husband likes to drink and party and she didn’t like for him to go out with friends. Hazel feels that she drove him away, and it was partially her fault because she restricted him from doing things.
When her ex-husband cheated on her, Hazel grabbed her clothes and children and moved to Orlando with her mom for a few months till she got her own place. Hazel’s ex-husband wanted a second chance after he cheated on her and she gave it to him.
She did not forget him, but once he moved to Orlando, he started working at a factory with Hazel. Hazel tried to make him jealous by flirting with a co-worker of hers. She wanted revenge for what he did to her. In her ex-husband’s Myspace, Hazel found out that the girl that he cheated on her with was writing that she was pregnant with her ex-husband’s baby. Hazel’s husband at the time found out Hazel was talking to the man at the factory because he found a letter saying that he wanted to take her out, but Hazel admits that they were just friends, and he was younger than her.
Her ex-husband started talking to the girl he cheated on her with in New York. Her ex-husband moved back to New York. Hazel’s mother moved back to Miami, and she rented an apartment. When Hazel’s mom decided to move back to Orlando, Hazel stayed in Miami at the same apartment she had. Hazel met her new boyfriend at her apartment complex. She met him while he was trying to preach to her about his religion. Her admirer asked her out, and she said she was going to think about it. Eventually, Hazel said yes to her friend.
In the beginning, the separation with her ex-husband affected her children, but now it doesn’t affect them, and they get along with her new boyfriend. Her new boyfriend is not jealous. She is planning to get married again with her new boyfriend. He is Christian, just like her. She says that Christians have to be married before living together.
Hazel is able to see all things in a different light because she is Christian, and when she was young, she didn’t conclude what she really believed in. Hazel was raised in Opa Locka and Carol City. Her dad lived in Carol City, and he still lives there. Her mom moved to Opa Locka after separating from her father. Her mom is currently living in Orlando.
Now that Hazel has her children of her own, she doesn’t want her father to be a bad influence to her children by making them think that drinking is good. Hazel is able to see all this in a different light because she is Christian, and when she was young, she didn’t know what she really believed in.
After Hazel’s new boyfriend moved in with her, her ex-husband ended moving back to Orlando with the girl he cheated on her with because he liked the Orlando ambiance. His new girlfriend was 8 months pregnant. After setting in at Orlando, they ended up back in New York because they couldn’t manage there.
While in New York and while Hazel was rooming with her new boyfriend, Hazel’s ex-husband contacted Hazel because he wanted to get back with her. Hazel wanted to give it another try because he was the father of her children. Her new boyfriend moved out, and he understood her situation.
When they were living together, Hazel and her ex-husband would bring out the past and insecurities will build up based on past relationships. He would ask her what she did in the sofa with her recent boyfriend, and they would argue. Hazel realized that she had stronger feelings for her new boyfriend. Her ex-husband was confused, and Hazel told him to go back to New York with the girl he was seeing. Hazel now speaks to her ex-husband at times over the phone because of her children. Hazel’s new boyfriend picks the children up from school, and he babysits them. When Hazel left her ex-husband and told him to leave to New York, her new boyfriend was understanding and accepted to establish a relationship with her once more.
In addition, Hazel feels she doesn’t have to worry about her new boyfriend because he does not smoke, drink or go out clubbing like her ex-husband does. Her new boyfriend spends time with her at the park, movies and at church. She has many Christian friends now.
Hazel went to elementary school in Carol City. When she was young, she didn’t understand why she was the only Spanish girl that attended her class. Her classmates would bother Hazel because of her hair. She felt sad because she felt she was different, but as she grew older, she felt accepted. In her later years, she had a boyfriend that was black.
Hazel was 13 years old when her parents got divorced. She was both sad and happy when the divorce came about. When she used to live with her father, he wouldn’t allow her to wear skirts or to have boyfriends. She believes that if she was still raised by her father, she wouldn’t have been married, and her sisters would have not gotten pregnant. Hazel and her siblings were rebellious when her parents separated. They moved a lot because of the children’s behavior. When her parents were together, her father used to drink a lot, and he still does. She would always see her father arguing with her mom.
When Hazel would behave badly, her mother would send her to New York until she started behaving well. Once Hazel started behaving well, she moved back to Miami. In one of the visits to New York because of her bad behavior, Hazel met her ex-husband and ended up staying there. Hazel didn’t mind missing school because she didn’t like going to school, and it did not affect her emotionally. She enjoyed traveling. Eventually, Hazel did not end with good grades because of her absence.
Hazel had her first baby when she was 18 years old. She planned to get married in New York with her boyfriend, the baby’s father, but she ended up being pregnant with the baby before marriage. She was 3 months pregnant when she got married. Her boyfriend and she both wanted to get married regardless before the pregnancy occurred. The father of the baby was her first love, and she wanted to have children with him. Both of her children are from the same father. She got divorced because her ex-husband cheated on her with another woman. Hazel says her ex-husband was a good father. She was surprised to find out that he cheated on her.
Hazel had some relatives that worked with him in Foot Locker at New York, and she was informed that he was cheating on her. She had another proof when she caught her boyfriend’s co-worker who was a girl flirting with him and kissing him on the neck.
Her ex-husband dropped out of high school. Hazel got her GED. When she got married, she didn’t worry about her ex-husband’s salary because he was getting paid well at Foot Locker since he was the manager. She didn’t think that not obtaining his degree really affected him. Her ex-husband likes to drink and party and she didn’t like for him to go out with friends. Hazel feels that she drove him away, and it was partially her fault because she restricted him from doing things.
When her ex-husband cheated on her, Hazel grabbed her clothes and children and moved to Orlando with her mom for a few months till she got her own place. Hazel’s ex-husband wanted a second chance after he cheated on her and she gave it to him.
She did not forget him, but once he moved to Orlando, he started working at a factory with Hazel. Hazel tried to make him jealous by flirting with a co-worker of hers. She wanted revenge for what he did to her. In her ex-husband’s Myspace, Hazel found out that the girl that he cheated on her with was writing that she was pregnant with her ex-husband’s baby. Hazel’s husband at the time found out Hazel was talking to the man at the factory because he found a letter saying that he wanted to take her out, but Hazel admits that they were just friends, and he was younger than her.
Her ex-husband started talking to the girl he cheated on her with in New York. Her ex-husband moved back to New York. Hazel’s mother moved back to Miami, and she rented an apartment. When Hazel’s mom decided to move back to Orlando, Hazel stayed in Miami at the same apartment she had. Hazel met her new boyfriend at her apartment complex. She met him while he was trying to preach to her about his religion. Her admirer asked her out, and she said she was going to think about it. Eventually, Hazel said yes to her friend.
In the beginning, the separation with her ex-husband affected her children, but now it doesn’t affect them, and they get along with her new boyfriend. Her new boyfriend is not jealous. She is planning to get married again with her new boyfriend. He is Christian, just like her. She says that Christians have to be married before living together.
Hazel is able to see all things in a different light because she is Christian, and when she was young, she didn’t conclude what she really believed in. Hazel was raised in Opa Locka and Carol City. Her dad lived in Carol City, and he still lives there. Her mom moved to Opa Locka after separating from her father. Her mom is currently living in Orlando.
Now that Hazel has her children of her own, she doesn’t want her father to be a bad influence to her children by making them think that drinking is good. Hazel is able to see all this in a different light because she is Christian, and when she was young, she didn’t know what she really believed in.
After Hazel’s new boyfriend moved in with her, her ex-husband ended moving back to Orlando with the girl he cheated on her with because he liked the Orlando ambiance. His new girlfriend was 8 months pregnant. After setting in at Orlando, they ended up back in New York because they couldn’t manage there.
While in New York and while Hazel was rooming with her new boyfriend, Hazel’s ex-husband contacted Hazel because he wanted to get back with her. Hazel wanted to give it another try because he was the father of her children. Her new boyfriend moved out, and he understood her situation.
When they were living together, Hazel and her ex-husband would bring out the past and insecurities will build up based on past relationships. He would ask her what she did in the sofa with her recent boyfriend, and they would argue. Hazel realized that she had stronger feelings for her new boyfriend. Her ex-husband was confused, and Hazel told him to go back to New York with the girl he was seeing. Hazel now speaks to her ex-husband at times over the phone because of her children. Hazel’s new boyfriend picks the children up from school, and he babysits them. When Hazel left her ex-husband and told him to leave to New York, her new boyfriend was understanding and accepted to establish a relationship with her once more.
In addition, Hazel feels she doesn’t have to worry about her new boyfriend because he does not smoke, drink or go out clubbing like her ex-husband does. Her new boyfriend spends time with her at the park, movies and at church. She has many Christian friends now.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Journal 2
The week of September 9th, we discussed what place we would be attending for our listening post. A list was posted, which allowed us to see what place was most suitable for this assignment. The place that was chosen for my assignment was a flea market, which I was a bit skeptical about. I haven’t been to a flea market since I was a little girl, and the last thing I remember doing at the flea market was scratching the rashes I had. It does sound a bit awkward, but I am allergic to dirt, and the flea market that I last visited was outdoors. Between the heat, dirt and allergic reaction things couldn’t get worst.
An interesting article that we viewed in class and we discussed was about the author of a story. We all had our own views on Robert’s Samuels race. At first, I did not think that he was black because I thought that he would be more familiarized with what was going on, but I realized afterwards that he was. “Optimism still reigns on Northwest 62nd Street and Seventh Avenue, where talk is all about the new supermarket and the old businesses selling President Barack Obama T-shirts,” Samuel says. After looking more in depth at his writing, I realized that he knows the bad aspects of living in a community with violence. According to Samuels, Brewton and others want the same for their now-infamous patch of Northwest 15th avenue, a business thoroughfare where few businesses exist. Here there are no trees and the street's asphalt melts into the concrete of the sidewalk, worn-down like the residents who walk upon them. The road offers a glimpse of the Liberty City that revitalization has not fully touched. The way Samuel describes Liberty City makes me think that he is not black. He explains how the street’s asphalt melts into the concrete of the sidewalk, worn-down like the residents who walk upon them. I believe that the description of the residents could have been restated into a more positive or at least less biased illustration. Because of such description, it made me think that Samuels was white and viewed the people at Liberty City as being very different than any other individuals. I sometimes wonder how people think sometimes about others within their own race. When people live in an environment that is not so good, they usually want to strive for a better lifestyle, but once they get to a level of success, they view those that were once part of their community as low individuals.
My debate is how can people not be able to live amongst others, and only like to live amongst those of their own race and be fine with it, but once they can obtain a better house, a better lifestyle, they deal with others of different races. A well off community is going to have a variety of people of different races, and when an individual of low class reaches that level, they mostly get along with high class people. They no longer would like to live in a poor or low class community where individuals of their own race are living at. It seems that successful people try to avoid these environments, making me think that they’re ashamed of it. With this in mind, Samuels seems to have implemented his high standards ideology to those individuals that are not as privileged as him, he has done so by such description of Liberty City.
The commercial ads were a fun activity with an analytical discussion of what an audience thinks. How a commercial is perceived is very important because it can be a disadvantage to the company to create a stereotype amongst a race. For instance, customers are very essential to a business, and the word of mouth or the buzz is the best advertising technique there can be. How about if a customer watches a commercial ad, and perceives it in a wrong way or feels disrespected by it then this creates a problem. The problem is that this customer can tell family members and friends about this horrible commercial and the word starts spreading to a point where the company loses customers. Because of the importance in keeping customers, it is crucial for a company to know who their target is and to try to avoid any stereotypes.
An interesting article that we viewed in class and we discussed was about the author of a story. We all had our own views on Robert’s Samuels race. At first, I did not think that he was black because I thought that he would be more familiarized with what was going on, but I realized afterwards that he was. “Optimism still reigns on Northwest 62nd Street and Seventh Avenue, where talk is all about the new supermarket and the old businesses selling President Barack Obama T-shirts,” Samuel says. After looking more in depth at his writing, I realized that he knows the bad aspects of living in a community with violence. According to Samuels, Brewton and others want the same for their now-infamous patch of Northwest 15th avenue, a business thoroughfare where few businesses exist. Here there are no trees and the street's asphalt melts into the concrete of the sidewalk, worn-down like the residents who walk upon them. The road offers a glimpse of the Liberty City that revitalization has not fully touched. The way Samuel describes Liberty City makes me think that he is not black. He explains how the street’s asphalt melts into the concrete of the sidewalk, worn-down like the residents who walk upon them. I believe that the description of the residents could have been restated into a more positive or at least less biased illustration. Because of such description, it made me think that Samuels was white and viewed the people at Liberty City as being very different than any other individuals. I sometimes wonder how people think sometimes about others within their own race. When people live in an environment that is not so good, they usually want to strive for a better lifestyle, but once they get to a level of success, they view those that were once part of their community as low individuals.
My debate is how can people not be able to live amongst others, and only like to live amongst those of their own race and be fine with it, but once they can obtain a better house, a better lifestyle, they deal with others of different races. A well off community is going to have a variety of people of different races, and when an individual of low class reaches that level, they mostly get along with high class people. They no longer would like to live in a poor or low class community where individuals of their own race are living at. It seems that successful people try to avoid these environments, making me think that they’re ashamed of it. With this in mind, Samuels seems to have implemented his high standards ideology to those individuals that are not as privileged as him, he has done so by such description of Liberty City.
The commercial ads were a fun activity with an analytical discussion of what an audience thinks. How a commercial is perceived is very important because it can be a disadvantage to the company to create a stereotype amongst a race. For instance, customers are very essential to a business, and the word of mouth or the buzz is the best advertising technique there can be. How about if a customer watches a commercial ad, and perceives it in a wrong way or feels disrespected by it then this creates a problem. The problem is that this customer can tell family members and friends about this horrible commercial and the word starts spreading to a point where the company loses customers. Because of the importance in keeping customers, it is crucial for a company to know who their target is and to try to avoid any stereotypes.
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